The Chicago Bulls have started the 2022-2023 season on a rocky slope to say the least. What was expected to be the year for a deep playoff run and possible finals appearance, is not looking good so far but there is still a lot of the season left to improve in the standings. The team however, is currently sitting at nine and 11 and 12th in the Eastern conference [at time of print]. The team is currently on a two game winning streak with recent wins against theMilwaukee Bucks and the Utah Jazz.  

The Bulls are not lacking in the scoring department. According to ESPN, Demar Derozan is averaging 20.9 points per game, 4.4 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game. Another key player in the starting five for the Bulls, all-star center Nikola Vucevic who the Bulls acquired via trade from the Orlando Magic. Vucevic has done a great job at the center spot racking 11.2 rebounds per game and 18 points per game. The final player that is a part of the big three is Zach Lavine. Averaging 24.2 points per game and being a key contributor within the offense. Lavine has also gotten a lot better at on ball defense during the training camp.  

Although offense is playing well, the main problem at the moment is the defense and turnovers. With star defensive player Lonzo Ball not being able to return for a couple more months due to a meniscus tear in his knee. Some good news however on November fourth Bulls Nation received an update about the injury status. When Donavon was reported by K.C Johnson Bulls Insider it was stated “Ball is progressing well and things are very optimistic”. Which is great news for the defense.  Additionally with Ball being out a star player has really emerged. 

This being Alex Caruso who signed a four year, 37 million dollar contract with the Chicago Bulls. Previously a role Player for Lebron James and Anthony Davis for the Los Angeles Lakers. The Lakers have had a rough start to their season in the Western conference going seven and twelve. Which is shocking considering they won the NBA title in 2020 during the Covid season. Caruso has averaged almost two steals per game this season and had 3.7 assists as he is a good ball handler and great in getting the offense set in transition.  

There is still time left in the season for the Bulls to get some key wins and are still definitely one of the favorites in the East. The Eastern Conference is very competitive this year with star teams they would possibly have to go up against in the playoffs. Like the Boston Celtics who are 17 and four and the Milwaukee Bucks who are 14 and five. Both teams were led by respective stars Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jason Tatum for the Boston Celtics. 

Giannis Antetokounmpo the MVP in 2018 and 2019. He has averaged 22 points per game and 9.4 rebounds. On the other hand, Jayson Tatum has averaged 30.8 points per game. Being one of the best guards in the league.

The Bulls have a lot of challenges to combat this season, but they are trending in a better direction. Star guard Zach Lavine has stated his goal for this season, “My ultimate goal is whenever I go on the court, I just want to be known as one of the best players.”